Air Abrasion
Air abrasion is a relatively new process in which a fine, pressurized stream of non-toxic aluminum oxide powder is used to remove small amounts of decay from the tooth's outer enamel layer. Used in place of the traditional handpiece (drill), air abrasion virtually eliminates the discomfort often associated with preparing and filling cavities.
The many benefits of air abrasion:
- Eliminates the need for an injected anesthetic; the procedure is completed more quickly because we don't have to wait for the anesthetic to take effect, and you won't have that numb, "fat-lip" feeling.
- Removes the fear and discomfort you may associate with the injection. This is especially comforting for children, often threatened by needles.
- Allows us to remove decay in its early stages, when it's too small to justify the use of a traditional drill.
- Reduces noise and anxiety, because there is no vibration or high-pitched buzzing common with the handpiece; the air abrasion device sounds like a quiet spray from an aerosol can.
- Removes much less of the healthy tooth structure, preserving the strength of the tooth and reducing discomfort after the procedure.
How we use air abrasion to remove decay
First, we use a dental explorer and X-rays to identify possible points of decay. Then we apply a solution called caries detection dye to any areas that are suspect. This solution identifies the precise position and extent of the decay, even if it's no t visible to the naked eye. If decay is discovered, and it has not spread beyond the enamel, we can use air abrasion to immediately prepare and restore the tooth. Air abrasion can also be used to:
- Prepare the areas around chipped, fractured or worn teeth, so they will bond with restorations such as porcelain veneers and composite resins.
- Remove spots and stains.
- Repair old sealants and fillings
However, air abrasion cannot be used to prepare teeth to receive crowns, deep fillings, replacements for silver fillings, onlays, or any other restoration where inflammation of the dentin, pulp and nerves is involved.
Also, we don't use air abrasion if you have asthma, as the fine particles released into the air during the procedure can cause wheezing and coughing in some people.
